Ministers have been warned of possible power outages in up to six million homes this winter, according to reports.
The government model of a “reasonable” worst-case scenario predicts large gas shortages in the winter if Russia cuts more supplies to the European Union, the Times says.
Limits could be imposed on the industrial use of gas, including gas-fired power plants, causing a shortage of electricity, and six million households could see their electricity rationed on sidewalks that can last more than a month, most in tips in the morning and evening.
Worst modeling is reported for a scenario in which Russia cuts off all supplies to the EU.
A spokesman for the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy told the PA news agency that the UK “has no problems with gas or electricity supply, and the government is fully prepared for any scenario. , even those that are extreme and very unlikely to happen “.
“Thanks to a massive £ 90bn investment in renewable energy over the last decade, we have one of the most reliable and diverse energy systems in the world and, unlike Europe, we do not depend on Russian energy imports.” they added.
Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng has approached the owners of British coal-fired power plants in Drax, Ratcliffe and West Burton to delay their planned closures in September.
A government spokesman told PA that the request was made “in the light” of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
“It is right that we are exploring a wide range of options to further strengthen our energy security and domestic supply, reducing long-term costs,” the spokesman said.
“While there is no shortage of supply, we may need to make our remaining coal – fired power plants available to provide additional electricity next winter if needed.
“It remains our firm commitment to end the use of coal energy by October 2024.”